Murphy's law
A complete beginner to the world of AFL, Irish-born Swans rookie Brendan Murphy made the move to Sydney late last year after playing Gaelic football on the Emerald Isle.
By David Hayes
How come you joined the Swans? I first heard from the Swans when we got kicked out of a (Gaelic football) competition back home . The recruitment manager came by my house and spoke to me about moving out here and what I could expect. I signed to the club then I came out for a week in August to see the facilities, meet the players and management. I could then go home to return for pre-season proper which was early November. A month after I arrived I suffered a bit of an injury set-back so have missed the pre-season games but I am back and ready to go now.
What’s been the biggest challenge? Personally, leaving everything from back home and
settling into life out here.
What about the challenge of switching code? The oval ball, kicking and handpassing, the bounce – it is all foreign to me.
What are you personally working on this season? To get used to the game and get the basics right.
What do you love about Sydney? The relaxed lifestyle and being able to just pop down to the beach.
Your best meal here? Ravesi’s at Bondi (02 9365 1481 www.ravesis.com.au). The steak and mash is just like home.
Favourite nightspots? I stick to the Irish bars.
Hip hop or rock ‘n’ roll? Hip Hop, because you can dance to it. I like Kanye West.
Favourite place to swim? North Bondi, close to home and not as rough as the other beaches. Since I am Irish I can’t swim that well and need to stick to the calmer waters.